Dog food: comparing dry and wet food

In short: Dry and wet food differ significantly in water content, energy density, and handling, though both can provide a dog with complete nutrition when of good quality. The choice often depends on the dog’s individual preferences and practical considerations.

In more detail: Dry food usually contains only about 10 percent water, while wet food often has over 70 percent moisture.

In detail

• Water content: The high moisture content of wet food supports fluid intake, especially in dogs that drink little.
• Energy density: Dry food provides significantly more energy per unit of weight, which means smaller portions are already filling.
• Dental care: Chewing dry food can have a mildly abrasive effect on plaque, but it doesn’t replace regular dental care.
• Shelf life: Dry food can be stored much longer after opening than opened wet food, which must be refrigerated and used promptly.
• Palatability: Many dogs find the more intense smell and taste of wet food more appealing, especially picky eaters.
• Mixed feeding: Combining both types of food can unite the advantages, such as the practical storage of dry food with the appeal of wet food.
• Switching food: A change in food type should happen gradually over several days to avoid gastrointestinal problems (haustier-ernaehrung-und-giftige-lebensmittel, hund-erziehung-grundlagen).